Customer Reviews

Microsoft Encarta Africana Third Edition [Old Version]

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I actually received the Encarta Africana as part of the Reference Suite Package and I'm not sure if I would have bought it otherwise, but I am now extremely grateful that I own it.

African history has been a very neglected part of the public education system (or at least that is my experience here in Canada). Beyond ancient history on the Mesopotamian region being the cradle of civilization, you learn very little about the rich and diverse history of this large continent. However, as this cd-rom demonstrates, Africa and people of African descent have contributed a great deal to the world, from its art (which inspired artists like Picasso to move beyond mere realistic portraits and landscapes towards greater expression of pure emotion), literature, music (jazz, the blues), etc.

Included are extensive entries on each country in Africa, its political leaders, its religions, its importance as the birthplace of humans and culture, etc., as well as the history of the dispersion of Africans to the Americas through not only slavery, but as important contributers to exploration. It also traces the history of Africans all over the world, Africa's contributions to food and culture, etc.

This cd-rom is beautifully designed and has excellent multimedia, including music, films of dancing, artwork, interviews with Colin Powell, Maya Angelou (spelling?), Whoopi Goldberg, etc., interesting essays on the concept of race. Also included is a library of historic African American literature (poems, slave narratives, etc.). As a white man, I now appreciate Africa's rich heritage far more than I used to, and I am sure it would make an especially wonderful inspiration to children of African descent. It is my hope that Encarta will release a similar cd-rom about Asia, but for now this cd-rom fills in the gap in a much neglected area of history. Kudos to those responsible.

As a first time buyer of the Microsoft Encarta Reference Suite 2001, I was excited to try out all of the components of the collection. When I got to Microsoft Encarta Africana 3rd Edition, I found that the program included many interesting features, such as Dynamic Timelines and Virtual Tours. Overall, this is a great member of the Microsoft Encarta product line.

My music instructor suggested this cd rom for intro to music, from my oppinion,I think it is the best thing any student can use while in school. Since then I used it for my art presentatin, and history. Also, I think that every one should have one of this in their library.
I give this a five star rating.

I am a college student and this software not onlt helped me projects but has taught me a lot about my history -- Even on topis that I am familiar with! Samples of music, clips, Internet searches - it's GREAT!! Also, you can have the program read articles out load so you can concentrate on your notes. There is also a great reference tool. Colleges make a big deal about citing references and Encarta Africana assists with that. This is a great learning tool!

Although this item has been discontinued... you can still purchase the third edition here or ebay. I love this software. I does run on Windows XP, Vista is not compatible. I would really suggest you get your hands on a copy. This is really helpful for my son's social studies project. This is worth every penny.

I attempted to locate this software at CompUSA & Best Buy. Unfortunately both failed to have this displayed for sell on their shelves. (Possibly discontinued?) However, I purchased it ... and use it daily in furthering my research on Black History. The Researcher function of the program helps to tie in resources found on the Internet as well. My daughter also has found it helpful in retrieving additional information for school projects.

I haven't seen any other software like it. Very informative with a reference section for doing papers. A MUST for researchers, students, and teachers alike!

Certainly worth all of the pennies I paid for it and more!!!!

I am an Ameican African and this portrays AA folks in a bad light